NT Waterwatch Kit - Part 5, Monitoring Catchment health (2003)

We rely on our healthy waterways and so do many plants and animals. The quality of the water is an important component of catchment health, as many creatures are sensitive to even small changes in water quality.

To ensure there is a common understanding regarding the quality of water there are guidelines produced, which are used by researchers, governments and Waterwatch groups (Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality (ANZECC 2000). They assist in the monitoring of catchment health by these groups.

By reading this section on assessment and monitoring of catchment health, you will become familiar with what is involved in:

? water quality sampling including physical, chemical and biological parameters;

? habitat assessments; and

? catchment surveys

The main aims of PART 5 are to:

? introduce a selection of water quality parameters that are known to influence the health of a waterway.

? provide an understanding of how water quality is monitored and catchment health assessed.

? assist students and teachers to be become involved in water quality monitoring, habitat assessment and monitoring catchment health.

This section will provide an overview of the role Waterwatch plays in your community and allow you to determine the suitability of the exercise for your class, the resources required and give you a basic understanding of what a waterway assessment involves.

If your class is intending to undertake water quality monitoring or habitat assessment it is recommended that you contact your local Waterwatch coordinator for safety advice, additional technical information and materials to complete the tasks.

Involving students and the general community in monitoring water quality and catchment health enables them to feel that they can be a part of maintaining a healthy environment.